Free Fishing Weekend Aug. 17-18

This weekend is the perfect time to take a friend or family member fishing. It’s Free Fishing Weekend, which means they won’t need a license, tag or endorsement to fish, crab or clam anywhere in Oregon (that’s open to fishing, crabbing or clamming). 

Best bets for Free Fishing Weekend

If you’re taking someone fishing during Free Fishing Weekend, you’ve got lots of options to choose from. Trout, tuna, bass and salmon – take your pick.

• Trout anglers should focus on areas where summer water temperatures are cooler – lakes at higher elevations and the upper reaches of rivers and streams.
• Tuna fishing at several ports has been terrific lately. The fish are in relatively close and there are plenty of commercial charters for would-be anglers that don’t own a boat or gear.
• Bass fishing is great for beginners and chances are there’s a place to fish nearby. This time of year, bass fishing (both small- and largemouth) can be good in ponds, rivers and reservoirs throughout the state.
• Ocean salmon fishing has been good throughout the season and now those ocean fish are moving into the Buoy 10 fishery, where many are being caught.

Practice good catch-and-release techniques in late summer conditions

When water conditions are low, clear and warm, like they are now, be sure to practice good catch-and-release techniques when releasing fish.

• Fish early in the day when water and air temperatures are at their coolest.
• Land fish quickly. Playing a fish too long reduces its chances to recover.
• Keep the fish in the water while landing and releasing it.
• If you can’t remove the hook easily, cut the leader near the hook, which will eventually dissolve.
• Revive the fish in moving water before releasing it.

Fire and early season hunting

As early season hunters know, dry conditions and the associated fire danger can have a large impact on your hunting opportunity. It pays to check in advance to see if there are any access restrictions in the unit(s) you plan to hunt.

Youth pheasant hunts begin in September

Kids 17 and younger can experience a low-pressure, pre-season hunt with a good chance of harvesting a pheasant or two. Hunts are on various dates throughout the state. All kids must have completed hunter education, and be accompanied by an adult.

Find and register for a hunt